Looking After the Waggon and Horses: A Thoughtful Refurbishment

The Waggon and Horses, owned by True North Brew co. for around 11 years has long been a familiar local pub, shaped by years of everyday use. In January 2026, the building underwent a refurbishment focused on care and maintenance rather than change for change’s sake — improving comfort while keeping the buildings character that regulars recognise.

The work centred on practical areas that had naturally worn over time, including flooring, seating, soft furnishings and the bar. The aim was simple: make the pub work better day to day, without losing what makes it feel settled and welcoming.

One of the most noticeable changes was to the bar itself. Working with Oaksbridge, the bar was taken back from a dark, heavy finish to its original natural wood. This has lightened the entire bar area, making the space feel fresher and cleaner while still remaining warm and cosy. Stripping back later additions has also allowed the original craftsmanship and natural features of the building to stand out more clearly.

Elsewhere in the pub, local specialists were brought in to complete the work. Deb-E-Tone Soft Furnishings supplied new curtains to soften the space and define different areas, while Minton Carpets fitted hard-wearing flooring suited to a busy pub environment. Fixed seating was refreshed by Star Upholstery, and external signage was updated by Broadfield Signs.

Approached carefully, refurbishments like this are about longevity — looking after pubs so they remain comfortable, functional and familiar places at the heart of their communities.